What are the top free attractions in Edinburgh? Find out more about the range of activities available to do for free in Edinburgh including Galleries, Museums, Outdoors, Churches and Cathedrals. Kingsley Guest House welcome you to stay with our Guest House in Edinburgh.
Top Free attractions in Edinburgh
Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a treasure trove of culture, history, and natural beauty. Edinburgh boasts stunning medieval architecture and picturesque gardens and parks. There is always something to see and do in this vibrant city. However, exploring all of its wonders can be expensive. Fortunately, there are plenty of free attractions in Edinburgh that offer a great way to experience the city without breaking the bank.
In this article, we'll take a look at the top free attractions in Edinburgh. From its world-famous museums and galleries to its beautiful parks and historic landmarks, there is lots to explore. So, whether you're a local or a visitor, get ready to discover the best free things to do in Edinburgh.
FREE GALLERIES TO VISIT IN EDINBURGH
Edinburgh is a city steeped in history, culture, and art. Fortunately, visitors can experience some of the best of this artistic heritage without spending a penny. There are several galleries and museums in Edinburgh that offer free entry. Visitors can explore the city's artistic heritage without worrying about spending a fortune.
National Gallery of Scotland
One of the most popular galleries in Edinburgh is the National Gallery of Scotland, located in the heart of the city. It boasts an impressive collection of artworks, including masterpieces by renowned artists such as Botticelli, Raphael, and Van Gogh. The gallery also features a vast collection of Scottish art, from the 17th century to the present day.
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Another must-visit free gallery is the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. It is situated just a short walk from the National Gallery of Scotland. This gallery houses an extensive collection of portraits.
These include works by many of Scotland's most celebrated artists, such as Sir Henry Raeburn and Allan Ramsay. The collection spans from the 16th century to contemporary times and features portraits of notable figures from Scottish history and culture.
Modern and contemporary art
Other free galleries in Edinburgh include modern and contemporary art exhibitions. The City Art Centre showcases a range of contemporary art and design exhibitions. The Scottish Gallery of Modern Art features a vast collection of modern and contemporary art. Visitors can also explore the Fruitmarket Gallery, which hosts a program of exhibitions and events.
These showcase contemporary visual art. The Stills Gallery focuses on photography and digital media. Overall, Edinburgh's free galleries offer a fantastic opportunity for visitors to experience the city's artistic heritage without spending a penny. From classical masterpieces to contemporary art, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
FREE MUSEUMS TO VISIT IN EDINBURGH
Edinburgh is home to a wide range of free museums that cater to a variety of interests. These free museums are a great way to learn more about Edinburgh's rich history and culture, and offer something for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some of the top free museums to visit in Edinburgh:
The Museum of Childhood
This museum is a great option for families with young kids, as it is specifically dedicated to the history of childhood and toys. With a wide variety of toys, games, and other childhood memorabilia from across the centuries.
Scotland National Museum
This museum is dedicated to the history, culture, and science of Scotland. Featuring a vast collection of artifacts. Exhibits from natural history to fashion, as well as a section dedicated to the Scottish Parliament.
The Museum of Edinburgh
Located in the heart of the Old Town, this museum tells the story of Edinburgh's rich history, from its earliest settlers to its present-day residents. It features a range of exhibits and interactive displays that bring the city's past to life.
The Writers' Museum
This museum celebrates the literary heritage of Scotland and the lives and works of some of its most famous writers such as Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.
The People's Story Museum
This museum is dedicated to the history of the people of Edinburgh. The museum focuses on everyday life and experiences throughout the centuries. It features a wide range of exhibits.
FREE PARKS AND OUTDOOR PLACES TO VISIT IN EDINBURGH
Edinburgh is not only rich in history and culture but also offers beautiful outdoor spaces for visitors to enjoy. There are many free parks and outdoor places to visit in Edinburgh.
Whether you're looking for stunning views, beautiful gardens, or a peaceful escape, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful city. Here are some free parks and outdoor places to visit in Edinburgh:
Princes Street Gardens
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, Princes Street Gardens offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the city skyline. The park is split into two sections, the East and West Gardens, and features beautiful gardens, monuments, and statues.
Holyrood Park
Situated at the foot of Arthur's Seat, Holyrood Park offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding hills. Visitors can hike to the top of Arthur's Seat for even more stunning views or explore the park's lochs, glens, and wildflowers.
The Royal Botanic Garden
Just a short bus ride from the city center, the Royal Botanic Garden offers 70 acres of beautiful gardens, greenhouses, and woodland. Visitors can explore a variety of plants from all over the world, as well as enjoy the garden's events and exhibitions.
Calton Hill
One of Edinburgh's most iconic landmarks, Calton Hill offers panoramic views of the city and features several monuments and memorials. Visitors can climb to the top of the hill for stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, and the Firth of Forth.
Water of Leith Walkway
The Water of Leith is a beautiful river that runs through Edinburgh, and the walkway along its banks offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Visitors can stroll along the path, spot wildlife, and explore the area's historic buildings and landmarks.
Dean Village
Dean Village is a charming and picturesque neighborhood in Edinburgh, located just a short walk from the city centre. It is known for its beautiful 19th-century architecture, peaceful waterways, and lush greenery. Visitors can take a stroll along the Water of Leith Walkway to explore the area and enjoy the scenic views.
Leith
Leith is a vibrant and historic port district located just a short distance from the city centre. It is home to a range of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as the Royal Yacht Britannia, which is open to visitors. Leith is also known for its lively arts and culture scene, with a number of galleries and music venues located in the area.
Pentland Hills Regional Park
Pentland Hills Regional Park is a large natural park located on the outskirts of Edinburgh. It offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and horse riding. The park is free to visit and open year-round.
Arthur's Seat
Arthur's Seat is an extinct volcano located in Holyrood Park, just east of the city centre. It offers stunning views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside, and is a popular spot for hiking and picnics. The climb to the summit can be steep, but is well worth the effort for the breathtaking views.
Edinburgh Old Town
Edinburgh Old Town is a historic area located in the heart of the city, and is home to some of the city's most famous landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and St Giles' Cathedral. The area is filled with beautiful buildings, narrow alleys, and cobbled streets, and is a great place to explore on foot.
The Scottish Parliament
The Scottish Parliament is located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, and is open to visitors free of charge. The building is a modern architectural masterpiece, with a unique design that incorporates elements of traditional Scottish architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the history and workings of the Scottish Parliament.
Royal Mile and Grassmarket
The Royal Mile and Grassmarket are two of the most famous and historic streets in Edinburgh. The Royal Mile stretches from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace and is lined with beautiful buildings and attractions, including St Giles' Cathedral and the Scotch Whisky Experience. The Grassmarket is a bustling square in the heart of the Old Town, filled with cafes, pubs, and shops.
Greyfriars Bobby
Greyfriars Bobby is a famous statue located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town. It depicts a loyal Skye Terrier who is said to have guarded his master's grave for 14 years. Visitors can learn more about the story of Greyfriars Bobby at the nearby museum, which is free to visit.
Portobello Beach
Portobello Beach is a beautiful sandy beach located just a few miles from the city centre. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics, and is home to a range of cafes, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can also take a stroll along the Victorian promenade, which offers stunning views of the Firth of Forth.
Water of Leith Walkway
The Water of Leith Walkway is a picturesque footpath that runs for 12.25 miles (19.6 km) from Balerno in the south-west of Edinburgh to Leith Docks in the north. The path follows the course of the Water of Leith, a river that flows through the city, and passes through a variety of landscapes, including woodlands, meadows, and urban areas.
Along the way, visitors can see a number of historic sites, including the Dean Village, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. The walkway is a great way to explore the natural beauty of Edinburgh and is popular with walkers, joggers, and cyclists. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, kingfishers, and herons.
FREE CHURCHES AND CATHEDRALS TO VISIT IN EDINBURGH
Edinburgh is home to many beautiful and historic churches and cathedrals, some of which are free to visit. Here are a few recommendations:
St Giles' Cathedral
Also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, this cathedral is located on the Royal Mile and is the Mother Church of Presbyterianism. It has a rich history dating back to the 12th century and features stunning stained glass windows, ornate carvings, and a unique Thistle Chapel. Admission is free, but a donation is appreciated.
Greyfriars Kirk
Greyfriars Kirk is located near the Grassmarket. This church was founded in 1620 and has a fascinating history. It is known for its somewhat infamous graveyard, where you can find the tombs of notable figures such as Greyfriars Bobby, a loyal dog who guarded his owner's grave for 14 years. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.
Canongate Kirk
Canongate Kirk is located at the bottom of the Royal Mile. This church was originally built in the 17th century and has been rebuilt several times since. It is the parish church of Edinburgh's Old Town and is known for its beautiful stained glass windows and unique tower clock. Admission is free.
St Mary's Cathedral
St Mary's Cathedral is located in the West End of Edinburgh. This cathedral is the mother church of the Scottish Episcopal Church. It was completed in 1879 and features stunning Gothic architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows. Admission is free, donations are welcome.
Old St Paul's Church
Located near the Scottish Parliament, this church was built in 1689 and is one of the oldest buildings in Edinburgh's New Town. It features beautiful stained glass windows and a unique circular gallery. Admission is free.
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